Concierge physicians offer their services directly to patients for an initial fee, which is generally paid monthly. They are often called direct primary care (DPC) or personalized medical service providers, but there are slight differences.
Their services previously used to be common only among wealthy patients who could afford the fees, but in recent years, concierge medicine has become more affordable.
Understanding Concierge Medicine
You may have seen a pediatrician for your routine visits and check-ups from a young age. It’s a good idea to keep seeing a doctor regularly throughout adulthood as well, and that’s where we come in to play!
You may need care for physical exams, maintaining your general health, and if signs or symptoms of illness appear and before symptoms or ailments occur, you must decide which doctor is best for you and your family.
There are many terms, titles, and types of doctors. Some are general practitioners, while others have specialties. It can be difficult to understand the different terms that surround medicine, physicians, and concierge medicine.
Read on to learn more about the types of primary care physicians, the difference between family practitioners and internists, and how to choose the best doctor concierge for your needs.
What Is the Difference Between a Primary Care Doctor and a Family Doctor?
Concierge physicians offer personalized attention and direct access. They are often physicians who choose to form a private practice in order to limit the number of patients they must care for so that they can provide attention to detail.
Their patient loads are remarkably lower as compared to the volume of a more traditional office practice!
Custodial physicians can do everything a primary care physician can do, including administering lab tests and conducting annual physicals.
They also typically provide minor urgent care services and diagnostic tests, such as stitches or treatment for minor skin conditions.
As concierge medicine physicians, family doctors understand your medical and family histories. They can help you stay ahead of genetic issues and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Shorter waiting time
One of the most popular reasons to consider a concierge doctor is faster access to your doctor. Same day appointments and direct email and phone contact with your concierge physician mean faster access to care. Because concierge physicians can limit the number of patients they see, they can often better control their availability.
Unlimited primary care services
Services that you would normally receive at a primary care visit, such as physical exams and preventive exams, are already covered by the fee you pay for the concierge service, so you won’t have to cover the costs of each individual visit.
For those with conditions like heart disease that require frequent visits, a concierge doctor might be more cost-effective in the long run. However, major medical problems, such as surgery, will still require insurance coverage.
A personal relationship with your primary care physician is possible
Since a concierge doctor doesn’t see that many patients, they can spend more time with each person. That means they will ultimately get to know you better. Your doctor also gains a better understanding of your medical history, which may make it easier for them to spot problems.
If you are considering adding a medical concierge to your team of healthcare providers, visit our contact section or schedule your appointment with us!
